At first we thought our neighbors' cesspool was the culprit, but as the Mosquito and Vector Control guy (to whom I reported the algae-covered pool) informed me, the warm weather is really to blame. We've got a swarm of California Rice Field Mosquitoes moving through the neighborhood. Apparently they're really enjoying the sunshine and unfortunately, our construction crew's blood. Ahem.

As we prepare to actually spend time in our yard this Summer (dig the photos of our Back 40 Revamp), I've been researching how to keep mosquitoes at bay. Here are six suggestions, not including spraying poison, slathering in DEET or burning those icky citronella candles that give me a headache.

1. Remove breeding grounds. This means no standing water! Mosquitoes need only the tiniest bit of water for breeding, so ditch bird baths, frequently change out the dog's water bowl, keep the yard tidy, clean the gutters, and (hello, Shawna) tip plant saucers to drain excess fluid.

Some consolation

2. Use lighting that doesn't attract them. Mosquitoes apparently have no love for yellow bug lights or LEDs. The zappers though? Ineffective according to my research. Don't waste your money!

5. Fill tree holes with sand. My new friend at Vector Control told me that mosquitoes enjoy living in tree holes until dusk (tree holes being exactly what they sound like). The solution? Plug them or call a tree surgeon.

6. Blow 'em away. The New York Times reported that a simple house fan can be effective at keeping mosquitoes away because it lessens two sources that attract them: carbon dioxide and body heat.